The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge-like sliding joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. You have one on each side of your head, right in front of your ears. Like any other joint in the body, it has a small section of cartilage to prevent bone-on-bone rubbing as you move your jaw. If you have pain or malfunction of this joint, the issue is simply referred to as “TMJ.” Underlying causes of TMJ include jaw injuries, nighttime bruxism (grinding of the teeth), and clenching of the ... [Read More]
Physical Therapist Austin TX
The Connection Between Obesity and Lower Back Pain
There is one thing chronic back pain sufferers are almost always asked to do, which is to lose weight. According to the American Obesity Association, back pain is a common problem among obese Americans. An estimated 36 percent of Americans are classified as obese. In a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, it was concluded that the risk for low back pain increases with a high body mass index (BMI), with obese people at greatest risk overall. Am I Obese? Obesity is defined as ... [Read More]
When to Visit a Physical Therapy Clinic for Hip Pain
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint mainly designed for stability and weight-bearing. It is reinforced by strong bones, ligaments, and muscles, which enable it to withstand a fair amount of pressure. Nonetheless, with a person’s advancing age or involvement in high-impact activities, it can still become susceptible to injury or disease. If you’re experiencing hip pain, you might be inclined to self-diagnose and experiment with home remedies. While some hip problems respond to self-care ... [Read More]
Why Would an Athlete Benefit from Going to a Physical Therapy Clinic?
Getting involved in sports comes with a gamut of health benefits, but one of its major drawbacks is that it makes you highly susceptible to injuries, which can dash your ability to perform and your hopes of reaching your full athletic potential. If you are an athlete and want to constantly stay on top of your game, it pays to consider visiting a physical therapy clinic—even without an injury. Here are a few of the exact reasons why: Enhanced Athletic Performance Physical therapists use ... [Read More]
When to Seek Physical Therapy for Neck Pain
The expression “a pain in the neck” is a common expression because neck pain is very common indeed. To treat neck pain, we know that resting the area and generally not putting the same types or amounts of pressure on the neck and the head area will alleviate the pain. Many times, we simply slept in an awkward position – and so the neck pain lasts for several days and then disappears. However, if your neck pain is becoming debilitating and is lasting for more than a week, it’s best to turn to ... [Read More]
